Whisky production is set to breathe new life into a former oil depot on Ardrishaig's waterfront after planning permission was granted to convert the site into a craft distillery and visitor destination.

The project, led by John Moore, forms the next phase of a broader waterfront regeneration that earlier brought the nearby Steamer Terminal back into active use. Approval from Argyll and Bute Council on 25 September 2026 marks a key milestone for the scheme.

-- Advertisement --

Bringing the long-vacant plot back into service has been complex due to its industrial legacy, including contamination. The distillery development will enable remediation and return the land to productive use.

Plans combine small-batch whisky-making with tours and tasting spaces, and include a courtyard, terrace and greenhouse designed to encourage visitors to linger and enjoy the waterfront setting.

Bari Reid, Director of Organic Architects, said: "The ambition is to give people another reason to stop and spend time in Ardrishaig, contributing to the life of the village as well as making whisky. It's particularly rewarding to help find a productive future for a site that has been difficult to bring back into use."

With consent secured, attention now turns to starting construction and reviving this long-disused stretch of the Ardrishaig shoreline.